7 Best Men’s Watches To Explore At Second Movement

10 Oct, 2025

7 Best Men’s Watches To Explore At Second Movement

Audemars Piguet Code 11.59

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 redefines classic watchmaking through a modern lens. Its 41mm stainless steel case, framed by double glareproof sapphire crystals, reveals a dial unlike any other with a deep green surface punctuated by hundreds of micro-perforations that shimmer subtly under light. White gold hands and markers glow softly with lume, while a discreet date window preserves perfect balance. Beneath the surface, the in-house calibre 4302 delivers precision and a 70-hour power reserve, its decorated rotor visible through the caseback. The green rubber-coated leather strap gives the watch an elegant, contemporary presence on the wrist, an understated statement for someone who values both heritage and forward momentum.

Ulysse Nardin Freak X

Ulysse Nardin’s Freak X overturns convention: there are no dial plates and no conventional hands. The 43 mm case in black PVD-coated titanium is light on the wrist, while the movement itself performs double duty as the time display; the central bridge indicates minutes, and a rotating element marks the hours. The calibre UN-230 automatic contains a large silicon oscillator for stability and precision, and delivers a 72-hour power reserve. Practical touches, a 50-metre water resistance rating, and a robust alligator strap with red stitching make this technically radical men’s watch unexpectedly wearable.

Cartier Santos de Cartier

Cartier’s Santos de Cartier Skeleton Noctambule takes the brand’s iconic square form and reimagines it in black ADLC-coated stainless steel. Measuring 39.7mm, it retains the Santos design language while introducing bold contrast and a luminous skeleton dial. The Roman numerals are integrated into the bridges and glow with Super-LumiNova, adding visual depth. Inside beats the calibre 9612 MC, a manual-winding movement with a 72-hour power reserve and 138 finely finished components. Both the front and back crystals reveal their detailed construction. It comes with a leather strap and Cartier’s QuickSwitch system for easy changes. Water resistance up to 100 metres enhances its everyday versatility.

H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer

The Pioneer Mega Cool from H. Moser & Cie. is a study in refined engineering and effortless style. Its 42.8 mm case balances brushed and polished finishes, while ribbed sides and a screw-down crown hint at its 120-metre water resistance. The Lagoon fumé dial, a vivid blue that shifts with every glance, frames a flying tourbillon at six o’clock, keeping the design open and quietly dramatic. True to Moser’s minimalist ethos, the logo appears only as a transparent lacquer mark. Inside, the in-house calibre HMC 804 with a double hairspring and an 18k gold skeleton rotor ensures precision and a 72-hour reserve. Technical, striking, and unmistakably modern, it’s a watch made for those who appreciate understatement with depth.

Gerald Charles Maestro

The Maestro 2.0 Ultra-Thin presents Gerald Genta’s architectural artistry in a 39mm stainless steel case that’s just 8.7mm thick, defined by its signature asymmetric silhouette. Its emerald green sunburst dial catches light with depth and movement, accented by baton markers, luminous dots, and a discreet date window at six o’clock. Powered by the Swiss automatic calibre 2.0 with a 50-hour reserve, the movement reveals Geneva stripes, perlage, and a gold honeycomb rotor through its refined finishing. Completing the design, a green vulcanised rubber strap, screw-down crown, and 100-metre water resistance combine durability with sophistication, a seamless blend of form, function, and Genta’s enduring design legacy.

Girard-Perregaux Free Bridge

The Free Bridge updates Girard-Perregaux’s legendary bridge design with a contemporary skeleton dial. 44mm case in stainless steel varies polished and brushed finishes, generating a quiet play of light. At the front, the calibre GP01800 movement presents the balance wheel under one black bridge and a skeletonised barrel mainspring at 12 o’clock. Silicon parts help improve accuracy and anti-magnetic resistance, with the movement providing a 54-hour power reserve. The open construction demonstrates outstanding finish, from brushed bridges to applied markers and a floating GP logo. The Free Bridge blends traditional watchmaking with a modern, industrial aesthetic, a distinctive option for collectors of men’s watches.

IWC Portofino

The IWC Portofino Automatic in 18k rose gold is a classic dress watch that exudes quiet confidence and refined taste. Its 40mm case with smooth lugs frames a silver-plated dial marked by Roman numerals, elegant leaf-style hands, and a discreet date window at three o’clock. Powered by the reliable calibre 35111 with a 50-hour reserve, it combines precision with enduring craftsmanship. The dark brown alligator strap, rose gold pin buckle, and sapphire crystal complete a piece that feels as effortless as it looks. Timeless in design and rich in character, this is a watch made for those who appreciate sophistication that speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression.

Men’s watches that retain value are typically iconic, limited-production, or highly sought-after models. Examples include the Rolex Submariner, Patek Philippe Nautilus, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and select Omega Seamaster and Speedmaster references. Strong resale demand, brand heritage, and timeless design make these watches reliable choices for collectors seeking value retention.

Every watch collector should start with brands that offer heritage, quality, and investment potential. Key names include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Omega, Tudor, and IWC. These brands provide a mix of iconic sport, dress, and complication watches, helping new collectors build a versatile and valuable collection.

Everyday watches should combine durability, comfort, and style. Ideal options include the Tudor Black Bay and Royal, Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, Cartier Santos, and Panerai Luminor. These watches balance robust construction with versatile design, making them suitable for casual, office, and even semi-formal settings.

Yes, Tudor men’s watches are widely regarded as premium entry-level luxury watches. Models like the Black Bay and Royal offer reliable automatic movements, robust construction, and iconic design at a more accessible price point than Rolex, making them perfect for collectors starting their journey.